Downes calls for fan support
Published:Monday | March 28, 2022 | 12:08 AMLivingston Scott/Gleaner Writer -
After going five games without a win, Jamaica Premier League (JPL), Mount Pleasant's coach, Walter Downes, has called on supporters to stand behind the team, especially during this difficult run of games.
Mount Pleasant went down 2-0 to Portmore at their home ground, Drax Hall,yesterday, and many of their supporters exited the venue early after seeing their team go down to goals from Chevoy Watkin (65th) and Keny Charleston (86th).
However, Downes, who is starting to feel the pressure after a blistering start to the league, said it is times like these that they need the fans to lift their spirits.
"We weren't fluid at all today. We didn't create enough, and we didn't move the ball quickly enough, and it was not a good performance," he said.
"However, if fans want to support the club, stay and support the club, that is what the team needs when we have a bad day - we need them to support the team and not walk away," he said.
"But by and large, the fans were terrific today (Sunday). They stuck with us for the most part, and we are going to need them for the rest of the season," he added.
Mount Pleasant had the two best chances of the first half, with Ricardo Morris coming close with a free kick and Donovan Segree having a volley that just went over.
However, 19 minutes after the break, Emelio Rousseau crossed to Watkin, who headed home from eight yards.
Mount Pleasant searched desperately for an equaliser but were caught on the counter late in the game.
Charleston finished off the move four minutes from time to put Portmore 2-0 up.
Suela McCalla missed a great chance to pull a goal back in added time but his penalty was saved by Williams.
Mount Pleasant are now fourth on 19 points, same as fifth place Cavalier. They are two points off Arnett in third and six behind leaders Dunbeholden.
Portmore's win placed them in the top half of the league. They now have 14 points, one more than Harbour View, who dropped to seventh.
Portmore's coach, Lenworth Hyde, said his team had to adjust their tactics during the game but thought his players gave the type of effort that was required to get the victory.
"We could have possessed the ball more," he said.
"We tried to play behind the ball and hit them on the counter, and that worked in some aspects. But the effort, determination, and desire was there, and that is why we scored two goals and got a clean sheet.
"They worked hard. It was a no-nonsense attitude the boys took today and got the win. Now we want to maintain it and try to improve on it every time," he said.
In the day's other game, Dunbeholden beat Harbour View 1-0 to climb to the top of the table.
Today's games
5 p.m.: Molynes vs Humble Lion - Sabina Park 7.30 p.m.: Arnett Gardens vs Waterhouse - Sabina Park